Prediction of N0 Irradiated Rectal Cancer Comparing MRI Before and After Preoperative Chemoradiotherapy

Background: The prediction of lymph node status using MRI has an impact on the management of rectal cancer, both before and after preoperative chemoradiotherapy. Objective: The purpose of this study was to maximize the negative predictive value and sensitivity of mesorectal lymph node imaging after chemoradiotherapy because postchemoradiation node-negative patients may be treated with rectum-sparing approaches. Design: This was a retrospective study. Settings: The study was conducted at a tertiary care hospital. Patients: Sixty-four patients with locally advanced rectal cancer who underwent preoperative chemoradiotherapy and MRI for staging and the assessment of response were evaluated. Mai…